by Joan Davis
“Pay attention, man, you’re going to miss the main attraction,” Conner said, nudging Samson to get his attention. Like Samson, he was decked out in a well-fitted, black tuxedo, complete with a cumber bund and bowtie. Conner looked dashing, as he stood leaning heavily on a very stylish black cane.
Samson smiled quickly at his best man and turned to see a vision in white, slowly making her way towards him. He took a deep breath, and everything became calm and centered in his world.
Risa stood at the French doors of Samson’s home, with her father by her side. She looked out upon the mass of family and friends and took it all in, missing nothing. Jose and Maria sat looking down at their new baby boy, Raphael Jose Rojas. Next to them were Chris, Sarah and their laughing baby girl, Christina. Catching Mikhail’s eye, she smiled shyly and noticed he was seated next to Gabriel Ryan, whom she had only recently gotten to know. Samson’s parents and grandmother sat a prominent table where Risa, Samson and Bill Landau would also sit during the reception. The rest of the tables were overflowing with Samson’s family, and even a few of his employees. You could feel the love and happiness flowing in the air all around them.
Breathing deeply, Risa felt calm and at peace. The bright explosion of the autumn leaves that her mother had loved so much were a beautiful back drop for the day’s events. Risa smoothed down the already perfect folds of her long-sleeved satin and lace wedding dress. The simple, but elegant, design fit Risa perfectly, from the heart-shaped bodice and neckline to the simple flare of the satin skirt. It fell to her ankles, showing off white satin wedding pumps that had belonged to Risa’s mother. Her hair was now a thick mass of black curls and ringlets that fell just past her shoulders. She held it back with a beautiful headband that was padded with white satin and lace and encrusted with crystals and pearl-like beads.
Risa thought about the last year and knew deep in her soul that her mother had sent Samson to her. She didn’t have any other explanation for the extraordinary connection and trust she had with Samson from the very beginning. Every day, Samson showed her in a million different ways how much he loved her. He accepted her love with grace and gratitude. Risa felt blessed every morning when she got to look into his beautiful turquoise eyes, knowing he was hers alone. The love and happiness they shared was forever.
Risa felt her father take her arm as the music started, and the guests all stood. “Are you ready, honey?” Bill Landau asked his daughter in an emotional voice.
Love shinning in her eyes, Risa said, “Mommy’s here, Daddy, and she’s so happy.”
Tears swam in Bills eyes, as he smiled down at his daughter. “I know, my little girl. I know.”
With that, Risa walked the winding path of flower pedals left by a stream of flower girls and then looked up to meet the gaze of her beloved giant. As always, Risa stepped trustingly into his arms, without hesitation.
THE END
About the Author
Joani Davis is a rare Florida native. She lives to be creative and loves art in any form. Writing has been a constant companion from an early age, but it wasn’t until she received some hardcore encouragement that she finished the manuscript that became this book. Living in the sub-tropics gives her both a southern and coastal view of the world.
Thank You
Thank you for taking the time to read my book. Any feedback is welcome.
My E-mail address is: [email protected]